IBPS PO Descriptive Test 2025: In the IBPS PO Mains Exam, the descriptive test is an important section that evaluates a candidate’s writing skills. It consists of one essay and one comprehension, carrying a total of 25 marks. The marks scored in this section are added to the mains exam marks to calculate the overall cut-off. Hence, it is important to prepare well for descriptive writing.
The IBPS PO Descriptive Test is a part of the mains exam, which is scheduled to be held on 12th October 2025. In this blog on descriptive writing for IBPS PO, we will provide some important topics, tips, and formats to help you prepare effectively. Do remember that in the exam, you will have to type your answers using the computer keyboard, so practicing online is highly recommended.
IBPS PO Descriptive Test Pattern
The IBPS PO Descriptive Test 2025 is an important part of the mains exam. It checks how well candidates can write and express their ideas in English through essay and comprehension. The questions are usually related to banking, the economy, social issues, ethics, and current events.
| Section / Paper | No. of Questions | Marks | Medium | Time Duration |
| Descriptive Paper (Essay & Comprehension) | 2 | 25 | English | 30 minutes |
Changes in IBPS PO Descriptive Paper in 2025
Till last year, the descriptive section consisted of one essay and one letter. In 2025, the letter has been removed and replaced by a comprehension.
- Essay writing is for 15 marks.
- Comprehension is for 10 marks (likely 5 questions of 2 marks each).
The topics will not be limited to banking. They may also be based on economic issues, social issues, technology, ethics, or current events.
How is the Descriptive Paper in IBPS evaluated?
The evaluation is automated. This means answers are checked by a computer system and not only by human examiners. If you write irrelevant content with correct grammar, you will not get marks. Similarly, if the content is good but the word limit or grammar is ignored, marks will be lost. Balance among all three is necessary. The system looks for three main aspects:
- Grammar, spelling and punctuation
- Word count
- Relevance and quality of content
Essay Topics for IBPS PO Descriptive Test
The IBPS PO Mains Descriptive Test checks candidates’ ability to express ideas clearly in English. The essay section carries 25 marks and must be completed in 30 minutes. Topics usually cover economy, technology, society, and current events. Practicing different topics helps improve writing skills and exam performance.
- Leveraging India’s Population for Growth: How India’s young workforce can boost economic development.
- Digital Learning vs Traditional Classrooms: Comparing benefits and challenges of online education.
- Green Initiatives and Climate Action: The role of sustainable practices in combating climate change.
- Privatization and Public Services : Balancing private sector growth with citizen accessibility.
- Innovations During the Pandemic: How COVID-19 accelerated technology and innovation.
- Skill Development and Employment: Vocational training versus conventional education for workforce readiness.
- India’s Space Achievements: Chandrayaan and its impact on India’s global space presence.
- Financial Technology and Inclusion: Digital banking and its role in reaching underserved populations.
- Inflation Management by RBI: Strategies to control inflation and maintain economic stability.
- Women Driving Economic Progress: The importance of gender equality and women’s contributions to the economy.
- Cybersecurity in Banking: Challenges and solutions in the digital finance sector.
- Economic Policies Shaping India: Key reforms supporting India’s growth as a major economy.
- Employment Challenges in Modern India: Causes and solutions for rising unemployment.
- Technology Transforming Banking Services: AI and automation in modern banking.
- Sustainable Development Goals in India: Progress and challenges in meeting global development targets.
Essay Writing Tips
Essay writing requires 250–300 words. The key is to cover all aspects of the topic within the word limit.
- Start with a brief introduction.
- Cover both sides of the topic (positive and negative).
- Use simple language and short sentences.
- Maintain proper paragraphing.
- Stick to the word limit. Writing 500 words when 300 are asked will cost you marks.
For example, if the essay topic is about caste system and social inequality, you should mention history, current issues, reforms, government steps, and the present challenges. Avoid focusing only on one part.
Prepare with Experts,
Comprehension Sample for IBPS PO Descriptive Test
Comprehension in the descriptive paper tests your ability to read carefully, understand key ideas, and express them in your own words. The passage will be based on current topics such as technology, economy, social issues, or ethics. Each question must be answered in about 30–40 words. Do not copy sentences directly from the passage. Instead, write short and clear answers in your own language.
Sample Passage (Short)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries by automating tasks, improving decision-making, and creating new opportunities. While some fear job losses, others believe AI will generate new roles requiring advanced skills. The real impact of AI on employment depends on how societies invest in skill development, regulation, and ethical use.
Sample Questions
- What is the central idea of the passage?
- How can AI affect employment in both positive and negative ways?
- According to the passage, what role should societies and institutions play?
- What is the author’s tone while discussing AI?
- Write a brief summary of the passage in your own words.
Approach for Comprehension
In comprehension, questions will be based on the given passage. The answers should be in your own words, not copy-pasted. Keep them short and clear (about 30–40 words each).
Likely question types:
- Central idea or argument of the passage
- Difference between present and past situations
- Role of institutions or organisations
- Author’s tone
- Summary of the passage
FAQs on IBPS PO Mains Descriptive Test
Q1. What is the IBPS PO Mains Descriptive Paper 2025 pattern?
The descriptive paper now includes one essay (15 marks) and one comprehension (10 marks), making a total of 25 marks. The letter writing section has been removed.
Q2. How much time is given for the descriptive test?
You will get 30 minutes for the descriptive test. This time should be divided between the essay and comprehension. Ideally, spend 12–15 minutes on comprehension and the remaining time on essay writing.
Q3. How is the descriptive paper evaluated?
Evaluation is automated. The system checks for grammar, spelling, punctuation, word count, and relevance of content. Writing irrelevant points or ignoring word limits will reduce your marks.
Q4. How can I prepare for comprehension in the descriptive test?
Practice reading editorials and reports daily. Write short summaries in 30–40 words. Focus on answering in your own words and avoid copy-pasting. Practice common question types like central idea, author’s tone, role of institutions, and summary writing.
Q5. How to improve typing speed for the descriptive test?
Practice typing essays and passages on a computer, preferably with an old keyboard, as used in exam centers. A speed of 35 words per minute is sufficient. Avoid mobile typing practice and instead use MS Word or Notepad.
- SBI Clerk Prelims 2025 Shift Timings, Admit Card, Document List
- New Essay Topics For IBPS PO Mains 2025 | Burning Hot Topics
- IBPS PO Descriptive Test 2025, Revised Pattern, Samples
- Bank Merger List in India 2025, Complete List
- GA Questions Asked in SBI PO Mains 2025, 13th September
- SBI PO Mains Exam Analysis 2025, 13th September Review
Hi, I’m Tripti, a senior content writer at Oliveboard, where I manage blog content along with community engagement across platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp. With 3+ years of experience in content and SEO optimization related to banking exams, I have led content for popular exams like SSC, banking, railways, and state exams.